News from AustriaThere is no doubt that after dominating the 125 class especially power wise KTM wants to keep the top position in the 250F class too. The Austrians were the last of the big five MX manufacturers to enter that class with a production bike in 2006 and the 2007 model already got a massive overwork.  | | Marcus Schiffer checks the cornering abilities if the SXF250 |
We tested the orange-black beauty at several tracks to find out what KTM has to offer for the very competitive MX2 class.
See what we think …
[T e c h ]
For the looks KTM added some nice features to the 2007 model lineup. All new plastics with a very unique side plate design, a black frame and black rims are making the SX-F 250 design outstanding.
The frame has a new layout and is still made of steel. And to make everybody quiet who wants Aluminum like all the other manufactures are offering: We don`t see a reason not to use steel. Hitting the scales at 96,1kg is less than anybody else in this class. And on the track there is no noticeably difference.
Other unique and nice features are the air filter box that requires no tools to change the filter, a hydraulic clutch, now made by Brembo and still a no-linkage rear suspension.
[ C h a s s i s ]
The 48mm fork made by White Power got some new internals and the result is good. Very low friction offer a smooth feeling and the overall damping setup works well. The White Power PDS Shock got a new setup either and thanks to the new swing arm a new position towards the frame. Once you dialed in the sag properly, which is the most important thing when riding the KTM linkless suspension, it works good and gives the rider a lot of faith towards the rear end.
In the past KTM was known for their rock hard seat foams but after changing the design also the seat foam changed. It is much softer now. The Renthal bars can be mounted in 4 different positions and there is also a chance to change the triple clamps`offset between 18 and 20mm. We ran the shorter version for better handling that comes stock and were very happy with that.
The brakes made by Brembo were working great and especially the front unit offers maximimg braking bower al the time.
[ Technical Data ]
Engine
Type:249,5 ccm 1-Zyl. 4-stroke DOHC 4 Valve
Bore x Stroke: 76 x 55 mm
Compression Ratio:12,8:1
Carburetion: Keihin MX FCR39
Ignition: Kokusan digital 4K-3A
Transmission: 6-speed with wet multi-disc manual clutch, hydraulic engagement
Gearing: 13:48
Chassis
Suspension/Front: WP USD Ø 48 mm
Suspension/Rear: WP Monoshock PDS
Brakes/Front: Single semi-floating 260mm disc, dual-piston<br>
Brakes/Rear: single 220mm disc, single-piston
Tires/Front: 80/100-21
Tires/Rear: 100/90-19
Dimensions
Wheelbase: 1481 mm
Seat Height: 925 mm
Rake (Caster Angle)/trail: 63,5
Dry Weight: 96,1 Kg
Fuel Capacity: 8 Liter
Color: orange
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